In a fiery interview with ESPN, Los Angeles Clippers chairman Steve Ballmer vehemently rejected allegations that his franchise manipulated the NBA salary cap surrounding star player Kawhi Leonard. His comments came in response to a report from the popular podcast "Pablo Torre Finds Out."

Ballmer, speaking candidly with ESPN's Ramona Shelburne, distanced himself from rumors regarding Leonard's sponsorship deal with Aspiration, a now-defunct environmental firm with which the Clippers struck a major deal in 2021. He insisted that Leonard's contract was on the level, affirming, "We have abided by the salary-cap circumvention rules because that’s the right thing to do."

When pressed on the allegations stemming from the podcast, Ballmer admitted, "I have no knowledge of any court documents. Speculating on this would be crazy." He expressed frustration about being misled by figures involved with Aspiration, particularly after Joe Sanberg, a co-founder, recently confessed to defrauding investors of a staggering $248 million.

Reflecting on his investment in Aspiration, Ballmer revealed his regret: "I feel embarrassed that I didn’t sniff out the fraudulent financials. It’s a bad investment, and I regret being part of it." This revelation adds a human element to the usually bulletproof billionaire persona.

Adding to the scrutiny, this isn't the Clippers' first brush with potential impropriety regarding Kawhi Leonard. In 2019, the league investigated claims that Leonard's uncle sought inappropriate advantages during his free agency process, but cleared the team of any wrongdoing. Ballmer emphasized that both Leonard and his uncle are well aware of the rules and have complied.

Despite the rising tide of criticism, Ballmer assured fans that the Clippers are ready to cooperate with the new investigation initiated by the NBA following Torre's episode. "We welcome the league investigation and have nothing to hide," he stated, acknowledging the distress this situation has caused for fans and staff alike.

"I’m mad but also sad for our employees and the challenges they face during this turmoil," Ballmer expressed, emphasizing his disappointment while also showing a commitment to transparency. As these allegations swirl, all eyes remain on the Clippers and their ability to weather this storm.